The Football Association has launched an inquiry after England football boss Fabio Capello and his players were bugged during a pre-match meeting.

Discussions involving the manager and his squad are understood to have been secretly taped ahead of last week's friendly against Egypt.

The team meeting took place at The Grove hotel, a spa and golf complex near Watford.

Although they have not commented officially, the FA's lawyers have moved to ensure the conversations remain confidential.

They said the contents of the recording would be illegal and a breach of the Data Protection Act and Press Complaints Commission rules.

It is understood FA officials are attempting to get a copy of the recording and have approached a national newspaper to ask for more information.

The bugging is yet another unwelcome issue for Capello in the build-up to the World Cup.

The England coach was forced to replace John Terry as captain following revelations about the Chelsea defender's private life.

Hertfordshire Police said no one has contacted the force about the clandestine recording.

A spokeswoman said detectives will examine if any offences have been committed if a complaint is received.